Dual-arm radio headset

ABSTRACT

A communications system includes a support band, a speaker, and two arms disposed on opposite ends of the support band. The speaker allows the user to receive radio communications. A first arm may comprise a communication subassembly, allowing for the user to send radio communications. The first and second arms may pivot about its connection to the support band. A second arm comprises a shield subassembly, whereby the shield subassembly may completely cover the mouth and nose of the user to prevent the exit and entrance of airborne particles. The shield assembly may comprise a medical-grade material disposed between two layers of plastic. The shield assembly may be disposable.

REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation application that claims the benefitof the filing date under 35 U.S.C. § 120 of U.S. patent application Ser.No. 17/196,612, filed on Mar. 9, 2021, the entirety of which isincorporated herein by reference.

BACKGROUND

Communication headset systems are used extensively in various industriesto allow a user to remotely communicate with another user. Examplesinclude the use of headsets in sports, whereby a coach may communicatewith another coach in real-time to discuss plays, personnel and thelike, or the use of headsets by restaurants, whereby a restaurantemployee may take an order and communicate it to those in the kitchen.

Due to the prevalence of the transmission of viruses and otherpathogenic microorganisms through airborne particles, the use of facecoverings has become widespread in today's society, wherein manyorganizations and municipalities require use of such face coverings.Current designs of headsets do not allow for the dual use of both theheadsets and face coverings nor do they allow for the ease betweenswitching between the two. What is needed are communication systems thatallow a user to easily switch between communicating via a headset andusing a face covering.

SUMMARY

In one aspect, a first embodiment of a communications headset systemincludes a first arm and a second arm pivotably attached to oppositeends of a support band. The support band may be adapted to be securedabout the head of a user.

In another aspect, a second embodiment of the communication headsetsystem may include a support band adapted to be secured around a user'sneck, in a collar configuration, resting upon shoulders of the user. Thesupport band may wrap around the back of the neck of the user withopposite ends extending forward relative to the user.

In an example of the first embodiment or second embodiment, the firstarm, second arm, or both are independently pivotable. In the aboveexample or another example, the first arm, second arm, or both orvertically pivotable, laterally pivotable, or both.

In one example of the either the first embodiment or second embodiment,the first arm may comprise a microphone disposed at an end, tip, orother portion corresponding to a location of a user's mouth when worn.In a further example, the microphone may be configured to be in signalcommunication with a communication unit and adapted to detect sound. Thedetected sound may be transmitted to the communication unit wirelesslyor by wired connection and the communication unit may be configured totransmit the sound signal wirelessly or by wired connection to one ormore receivers.

In any of the above examples or another example of the first embodimentor second embodiment, a speaker may be positioned proximate to an ear ofthe user when the support band is worn by the user. For instance, in acollar configuration, the speaker may extend vertically from the supportband to a position proximate the ear of the user. In a head wornconfiguration the speaker may extend laterally from ends of the supportband. In a further example, the speaker may be in operationalcommunication with a communication unit, allowing for the speaker tooutput sound received by the communication unit wirelessly or by wiredconnection.

In any of the above examples or another example of the first embodimentor second embodiment, the second arm may comprise a shield assemblyadapted to engage the face of the user and create a barrier to preventthe receipt and transmission of air particles. In any of the aboveexamples or another example of the first embodiment, the first arm andsecond arm may be pivotably attached to the support band, whereby themicrophone of the first arm, if present, and the shield assembly of thesecond arm, if present, may be proximate the mouth of the user when wornin an engaged position, and then may be moved away from the mouth of theuser to an inactive position. For example, if the user wishes to solelyengage with the microphone of the first arm, the first arm may beconfigured in the engaged position, and the second arm may be pivoteddownward or outward and away from the mouth. Alternatively, if the userwishes to solely engage the shield assembly of the second arm, thesecond arm may be configured in the engaged position, and the first armmay be pivoted downward or outward and away from the mouth.

In any of the above examples of the first or second embodimentsincluding a shield assembly, the shield assembly comprises an innerface, an outer face, and a lining disposed between the inner face andthe outer face. The lining may be adapted to trap, hinder or filter airparticles that may contain infectious material. The inner face and outerface may comprise holes allowing for increased ventilation andbreathability from within the shield assembly. The shield assembly maybe transparent, allowing for the mouth of the user to still be viewedwhen the shield assembly is engaged. In another embodiment, the shieldassembly may be opaque and may further feature a design or logo disposedon the outer face of the shield assembly. The shield assembly may beremovably attachable to the second arm, allowing for the replacement ofthe shield assembly.

In any of the above examples or another example of the first embodimentor second embodiment, the first arm and second arm are removablyattachable to the support band and adapted to be secured on either endof the support band. Thereby, the user may configure the communicationsheadset system to feature the first arm on left side of the head and thesecond arm on the right side of the head, or it may switch the positionsof the arms, whereby the second arm is on the left side of the head andthe first arm is on the right side of the head.

In any of the above examples or another example of the first embodimentor second embodiment, one or more ear covers are attached or attachableto the support band. Ear covers may house speakers, when present. Earcovers may extend from the ends or the support band to a positionproximate an ear of a user when worn. For instance, in a collarconfiguration, an ear cover may extend vertically from an end of thesupport band to a position proximate the ear of the user. In a head wornconfiguration, ear cover may extend laterally from an end of the supportband to a position proximate the ear of the user.

In still another aspect, a third embodiment of the communicationsheadset system may comprise a wrist-mounted assembly. The wrist-mountedassembly may comprise a wrist band, a pivotable arm, and a maskassembly. The wrist band may be adapted to secure the wrist-mountedassembly to the forearm of the user via a strap that is tightened alongthe wrist or forearm of the user. In one example, the wrist band mayfurther comprise two straps spaced apart along the forearm to increasestability of the wrist-mounted assembly. In the above example or anotherexample, the pivotable arm of the wrist-mounted assembly may bepivotably attached to the wrist band at one end and the mask assembly atthe other end. In a closed position, the pivotable arm may besubstantially parallel with the forearm of the user. A user maymanipulate the arm to an erect position by rotating the pivotable armabout the connection point with the wrist band, whereby the pivotablearm is substantially perpendicular to the fore arm of the user. The usermay then lift the forearm to the face of the user to engage the maskassembly. In any of the above examples or another example, the maskassembly of the wrist-mounted assembly may comprise any combination ofthe elements and features described herein with respect to the shieldassembly.

In yet another aspect, a fourth embodiment of the communication headsetsystem includes a support band, first arm, second arm, microphone, and ashield assembly. The support band includes a first end and a second end,wherein, in use, the support band is configured to extend around a neckof a user with the first end positioned along a first side of the neckof the user and the second end positioned along a second side of thehead of the user. The first arm attaches to the first end of the supportband, and the second arm attaches to the second end of the support band.The microphone is disposed on the first arm at location positionableproximate the mouth of the user. The shield assembly is attached orattachable to the second arm and includes an outer face and an innerface. The shield assembly is adapted to obstruct the transmission andreceipt of air particles and fit over the nose and mouth of a user.

In one example of the fourth embodiment, the first arm and the secondarm are pivotably attached to the respective first and second ends ofthe support band. In the above or another example of the fourthembodiment, the first and second arms are pivotable independent of eachother. In any of the above examples or another example of the fourthembodiment, the first and second arms are vertically pivotable. In anyof the above examples or another example of the fourth embodiment, thefirst and second arms are laterally pivotable. In any of the aboveexamples or another example of the fourth embodiment, the communicationheadset system further includes at least one ear cover extending fromthe first end or second end of the support band and positioned at alocation corresponding to ears of the user when in use. In any of theabove examples or another example of the fourth embodiment, the at leastone ear cover includes a speaker. In any of the above examples oranother example of the fourth embodiment, the communication headsetsystem further includes a communication unit in operationalcommunication with the speaker and the microphone. In any of the aboveexamples or another example of the fourth embodiment, an intermediatematerial is disposed between the outer face and the inner face of theshield assembly. In one example, the intermediate material is a clothmaterial. In a further or another example, the intermediate material isa medical-grade material. In any of the above examples or anotherexample of the fourth embodiment, the shield assembly comprises a screwdisposed on the outer face, whereby the screw is adapted to engage athreaded slot disposed at the distal tip of the second arm. In any ofthe above examples or another example of the fourth embodiment, thefirst arm and second arm are removably attachable from the support band.In any of the above examples or another example of the fourthembodiment, the first and second arms are vertically pivotable,laterally pivotable, or both. In any of the above examples or anotherexample of the fourth embodiment, shield assembly is transparent. In anyof the above examples or another example of the fourth embodiment,shield assembly is opaque. In any of the above examples or anotherexample of the fourth embodiment, the outer face and the inner face ofthe shield assembly comprise a plurality of holes. In any of the aboveexamples or another example of the fourth embodiment, the plurality ofholes comprise circular holes and rectangular holes. In one example, thecircular holes are approximately one-half inch in diameter and therectangular holes are approximately one-half inch in width andone-quarter inch in height. In a further or another example, theplurality of holes are arranged in separate rows alternating betweencircular holes and rectangular holes. In any of the above examples oranother example of the fourth embodiment, the shield assembly furthercomprises a cushion material disposed on an outer edge of the inner faceof the shield assembly. In any of the above examples or another exampleof the fourth embodiment, sides of the shield assembly are configured toform a seal between the sides of the shield assembly and face of theuser to prevent air flow therebetween. In any of the above examples oranother example of the fourth embodiment, the first arm and the secondarm are pivotable in an upward and downward direction and an inward andoutward direction. In any of the above examples or another example ofthe fourth embodiment, the second arm is longer than the first arm. Inany of the above examples or another example of the fourth embodiment,the first arm positions the microphone forward of the shield assembly.In any of the above examples or another example of the fourthembodiment, the first arm positions the microphone along or adjacent toa lateral side of the shield assembly. In any of the above examples oranother example of the fourth embodiment, the first arm positions themicrophone between the mouth of the user and the shield assembly. In anyof the above examples or another example of the fourth embodiment, thefirst arm positions the microphone between the mouth of the user and alateral side of the shield assembly. In any of the above examples oranother example of the fourth embodiment, the shield assembly includes aslot along a lateral side thereof for slotting the first arm interiorlyof the shield assembly. In any of the above examples or another exampleof the fourth embodiment, the shield assembly includes an interiorattachment structure for securing the microphone interiorly of theshield assembly. In any of the above examples or another example of thefourth embodiment, the shield assembly includes an exterior attachmentstructure for securing the microphone forward of the shield assembly.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

Novel features of the present disclosure are set forth withparticularity in the appended claims. However, the various embodimentsof the present disclosure described herein, both as to organization andmanner of operation, may be best understood by reference to thefollowing description, taken in conjunction with the accompanyingdrawings in which:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a communications system secured on auser in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 2A is a front view of the communications system of FIG. 1 in afirst configuration with a first arm in the engaged position and asecond arm in an inactive position.

FIG. 2B is a front view of the communications system of FIG. 1 in asecond configuration with a first arm in the inactive position and asecond arm in an engaged position

FIG. 3 is a top view of the communications system of FIG. 1.

FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view of the shield assembly accordingto one embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the communications system in accordancewith a second embodiment of the present disclosure

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a wrist-mounted communications system inaccordance with a third embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 7A is a perspective view of the communications system in a closedposition in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 7B is a perspective view of the communications system in a closedposition in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure

DESCRIPTION

FIGS. 1-7 illustrate communications systems according to variousembodiments of the present disclosure wherein like numbers identify likefeatures. As shown in FIG. 1, a communications headset 100 may compriseat least one speaker 120, a support band 140, a first arm 160 and asecond arm 180. In one embodiment, the support band 140 comprises acurved elongated body 142 with a first end 144 and a second end 146disposed at opposite ends of the elongated body 142. The support band140 is adapted to be secured about or rest upon a head of a user. Thesupport band 140 may comprise a resilient material, such as athermoplastic, whereby the curved shape of the elongated body 140 ismaintained through multiple uses. The support band 140 may bedimensioned to comprise a curvature less than a typical width of a headof a user, whereby the communications headset 100 may be secured to thehead of the user through tension created by the resilient material ofthe support band 140 attempting to return to its original shape. Invarious configurations, the headset 100 may include one or more earcovers 122 configured to position over ears of a user. The ear covers122 may be positioned along first and second ends 144, 146 at locationscorresponding to ears of the user.

In one embodiment, the speaker 120 is disposed at the first end 144 ofthe support band 140. When the communications headset is secured aboutthe head of the user, the speaker 120 may be located proximate an ear ofthe user. As featured in FIG. 1, the communications headset 100 mayfurther comprise an ear cover 122 coupled to the speaker and adapted tocompletely surround an ear of the user. The speaker 120 may be disposedwithin the ear cover 122 allowing a user to perceive sound output by thespeaker. An outer edge of the ear cover 122 may be lined with a cushionmaterial, such as a foam, memory foam, or padding, to provide comfort tothe user when the communication headset 100 is secured about the head ofthe user.

Although the speaker 120 is disclosed as comprising an ear cover 122,the speaker 120 may comprise an earbud configuration, wherein thespeaker 120 is directly inserted into an outer ear canal of a user. Inanother embodiment, the speaker 120 may comprise an open earconfiguration, wherein the speaker 120 is disposed outside the ear canaland directed toward the ear canal. In yet another embodiment, thespeaker 120 may utilize bone conduction technology known in the art,whereby vibrations are directed through the cheekbones and perceived assound by the user.

In one embodiment, the communications headset 100 speaker 120 comprisesa second speaker 120. The second speaker 120 may be located adjacent tothe second end 146 of the support band 140 and adapted to provide soundoutput to the other ear of the user. Such a second speaker 120 may beprovided within a second ear cover 122 or earbud configuration asdescribed above

In one embodiment, the first arm 160 is disposed proximate the first end144 of the support band 140 and extend distally from the support band140. The first arm 160 may comprise a slight curvature, whereby aportion of the first arm 160, which may comprise an end or tip may bepositioned proximate to a mouth of the user when the communicationsheadset 100 is in a secured position upon the head of the user. Thefirst arm 160 may further comprise a microphone 162 for detecting sound.The microphone 162 may be disposed along the portion of the first arm160 corresponding to the mouth of the user, which may be an end or tipof the first arm 160. The arm first 160 may be pivotably positioned withrespect to the support band 140 along a connection therewith, such asalong first end 144. In various embodiments, the first arm 160 may bepivoted downwardly to be positioned near a chest of a user. In this oranother example, the first arm 160 may be pivoted upwardly to positionat, near, or above the support band 140, e.g., the microphone 162 may bepivoted to a position at, near, or above the support band 140. In oneembodiment, the first arm 160 is pivotable outwardly in addition to oralternatively to downwardly and/or upwardly.

The communication headset 100 may include or operationally integrate,e.g., be in signal communication with, a communication unit 126configured for operational communication with to speaker 120 andmicrophone. The communication unit 126 may include one or more wiredand/or wireless receivers, transmitters, and/or transceiver configuredto receive audio data from one or more communication points for input tospeaker 120 for subsequent output by the speaker 120 into the ear of theuser and to receive audio data collected by microphone 162 and transmitthe collected audio data to one or more communication points, therebyallowing the communication headset 100 to receive and output audiocommunications at speaker 120 and transmit audio communicationscollected by the microphone 128.

The communication headset 100 may also include or electrically couplewith a power supply 128 configured to supply power to the communicationheadset 100, which may include communications unit 126. The power supply128 may include or receive a supply of electrical power via wiredconnection to a battery or residential power or via wirelesstransmission, as examples. However, the power supply 128 may include anysuitable power supply and utilize any suitable supply of power. In oneexample, the power supply 128 may include one or more disposablebatteries that may be replaced once power in the batteries is exhausted.In one example, the power supply 128 includes one or more rechargeablebatteries, which may be recharged by connecting the batteries to anexternal power source. In one example, the communication headset 100includes a connection for coupling to an external power source torecharge power supply batteries. In one embodiment, the power supply 128comprises a supply or A/C or D/C power, e.g., residential A/C.

In one embodiment, one or both of a communication unit 126 or powersupply 128 may be integrated within the support band 140 and/or thefirst and second arms 160, 180. In one example, the communication unit126 and/or power supply 128 may be located within a housing proximate tospeaker 120. In another embodiment, the communication unit 126 and/orpower supply 128 may be located in one or more separate housings that isin operational communication with the speaker 120 and any otherelectrical components of the communications headset 100. In such anembodiment, the separate house may be attached to clothing of the user,such as a shirt or pants worn by the user, via a clip or other temporaryfastener. The housing of the communication unit 126 and the power supply128 within a separate housing may allow for a decrease in the size ofthe headset system 100, as additional space to accommodate thecommunication unit 126 and the power supply 128 within support band 140,first arm 160, or second arm 180 is not required.

As introduced above, the microphone 162 may be in operationalcommunication with the communication unit 126, whereby a user may speakinto the microphone 162 creating a sound input, the sound input may besent to the communication unit 126, and the communication unit 126 maytransmit the sound input to a receiver (not shown) via wired or wirelesscommunication, e.g., radio (RF), microwave, optical, acoustic, or otherwireless communication. Thus, through both the speaker 120 and themicrophone 162, a user may communicate via wireless and/or wiredconnection with a third-party at or in signal communication with arecipient communication point.

In one embodiment, the second arm 180 is disposed proximate the secondend 146 of the support band 140 and extend distally from the supportband 140. The second arm 180 may also comprise a slight curvature,whereby a portion of the second arm 180, such as a distal end or tip maybe positioned proximate to the mouth of the user when the communicationsheadset 100 is in a secured upon the head of the user.

The second arm 180 may further comprise or be configured to attach ashield assembly 190. The shield assembly 190 may be adapted to extendover and/or cover the mouth and nose to prevent the spread and receiptof respiratory droplets contributing to the transmission of viruses,bacteria, or other microorganisms that may cause illness or disease. Inone embodiment, the shield assembly 190 is sized to extend beyond themouth and nares areas of the user. In a further or another embodiment,the shield assembly 190 may completely enclose the mouth and nose of theuser, whereby an outer edge of the shield assembly 190 is in continuouscontact with the face of the user. In another embodiment, the shieldassembly 190 is positioned in front of the face of the user withoutdirectly touching the face of the user. In this embodiment, the outeredge of the shield assembly 190 may be disposed approximately ahalf-inch from the face of the user, whereby the shield assembly 190 maystill hinder, trap, or filter air particles expelled from the mouth ofthe user. In other examples, the shield assembly 190 may be configuredto position between about 0.25 inches, about 0.75 inches, about 1 inch,or about 1.25 inches from the face of the user.

The shield assembly 190 may attach or be attachable at a connectionpoint along the second arm 160 corresponding to a mouth and nose area ofthe user, which may be along a distal end or tip thereof in someconfigurations. In one embodiment, the connection point along the secondarm 180 positions the shield assembly at a fixed position relative tothe second arm 180. In another embodiment, the connection point of thesecond arm 180 comprises a hinge 182, whereby the shield assembly 190may be pivoted about the hinge 182 to proximate or engage the face ofthe user about the mouth and/or nose at a desired angle. In oneembodiment, the shield assembly 190 is attached to the second arm 180via a slidable connection that allows the position of the shieldassembly 190 along the second arm 180 to be selectively adjusted bysliding the shield assembly 190 along the second arm 180. Alternatively,the shield assembly 190 may be attached along a length of the second arm180. The second arm 180 may be pivotably positioned with respect to thesupport band 140 along a connection therewith, such as along second end146. In various embodiments, the second arm 180 may be pivoteddownwardly to be positioned near a chest of a user. In this or anotherexample, the second arm 180 may be pivoted upwardly to position at,near, or above the support band 140, e.g., the shield assembly 190 maybe pivoted to a position at, near, or above the support band 140. In oneembodiment, the second arm 180 is pivotable outwardly in addition to oralternatively to downwardly and/or upwardly. In some embodiments, thefirst arm 160 and second arm 180 are independently pivotable to allow auser to determine which, if any, is to be positioned proximate the mouthand/or nose, and which, if any, is to be stowed for later use.

In one embodiment, the first arm 160 and second arm 180 include aflexible cable or extension that may be selectively bent to allow thefirst arm 160 and second arm 180 to be positioned in differingconfigurations. For example, the flexible cable or extension of thefirst arm 160 may be configured to extend forwardly from the first end144 of the support band 140 and curve centrally, whereby the portion ofthe first arm 160 corresponding to the microphone 162 aligns proximateto the mouth of a user. The user may then apply force to the first arm160 to straighten the first arm 160 away from the mouth if subsequentlydesired.

In one embodiment, as introduced above, the first arm 160 and second arm180 may comprise a rigid material that is pivotably hinged at connectionpoints between the first arm 160 and the first end 144 the support band140 and between the second arm 180 and the second end 144 of the supportband 140. As shown in FIGS. 2A-2B, the first arm 160 and second arm 180may be pivotable about a horizontal axis such that the first arm 160 andthe second arm 180 may rotate upwardly and downwardly relative to thehead of the user, whereby the first arm and second arm may be positionedproximate a top of the head of the user and positioned below the chinand near an upper chest of the user. FIG. 2A illustrates an embodimentof the communications headset 100 wherein the first arm 160 is in anengaged position and the second arm 180 is in an inactive position. Whenthe first arm 160 is in the engaged position, the microphone 162 of thefirst arm 160 may be located proximate the mouth of the user. When thesecond arm 180 is in the inactive position, the shield assembly 190 ofthe second arm 180 may be located proximate the upper chest of a user.FIG. 2B illustrates a configuration of the communications headset 100wherein the first arm 160 is in an inactive position and the second arm180 is in an engaged position. When the second arm 180 is in the engagedposition, the shield assembly 182 of the second arm 180 may be locatedproximate the mouth and nose of the user, completely enclosing the areato hinder the entrance and exit of airborne particles. When the firstarm 160 is in the inactive position, the microphone 162 of the first arm160 may be located proximate the upper chest of a user and away from themouth of the user, thereby creating distance between microphone 162 andthe mouth of the use so that unwanted sound input is not communicatedthrough the microphone 162. Additionally or alternatively, the first arm160 and/or second arm 160 may also be pivotable to inactive positionsabove the head of the user, e.g., above or adjacent to the support band140 to achieve a similar effect. In one embodiment, the first arm 160may only be pivotable between an engaged position in front of the mouthof the user and an inactive position above the head of the user, whilethe second arm 180 may only be pivotable between an engaged positioncovering the mouth of the user and an inactive position proximate thechest of the user, whereby the first and second arms 160, 180 would notcollide when both are placed in the inactive position.

In another embodiment, as shown in FIG. 3, the first arm 160 and secondarm 180 may be pivotable about a vertical axis such that the first arm160 and the second arm 180 rotate in an outward direction away from themouth of the user, whereby, in an inactive position, the first arm 160and second arm 180 may be positioned laterally to the side of the headof the user. The first arm 160 or the second arm 180 may then be rotatedinward about its respective vertical axis to place the first arm 160 orthe second arm 180 in the engaged position. It is within the scope ofthis disclosure that the communications headset 100 may employ bothpivot systems, allowing for the pivoting of the arms 160, 180upwardly/downwardly and outwardly.

Lengths of the first and second arms 160, 180 may be configured toposition the microphone 162 and shield assembly 190 relative to themouth of the users described herein. In some embodiments, the second arm180 is dimensioned to position the shield assembly 190 snugly around themouth of the user. In a further embodiment, the second arm 180 isdimensioned to position the shield assembly 190 snugly around the mouthand nose of the user. In one embodiment, the first arm 160 may beslightly longer than the second arm 180 and extend further away from thesupport band 140 in a distal direction, whereby a travel path of thefirst arm 160 would not intersect a travel path of the second arm 180.In this configuration, both the first arm 160 and the second arm 180 maybe placed in an engaged position simultaneously, wherein shield assembly190 on the second arm 180 is positioned on or in front of the face ofthe user and the microphone 162 is positioned in front of the shieldassembly 190, laterally adjacent to. In one embodiment, the shieldassembly 190 includes a slot along a lateral side corresponding to thefirst arm 160 through which the first arm 160 may slot for use, whichmay be particularly beneficial in embodiments wherein the shieldassembly 190 contacts or otherwise closely positions around the mouthand nose of the user. In one embodiment, the slot may be exposed bysliding or removing a panel functional as a slot cover. In this oranother example, attachment structures such as clips are positionedalong an interior portion or exterior portion of the shield assembly 190secure the first arm 160 relative to the shield assembly 190.

The first and second arms 160, 180 may comprise same or differentlengths. For example, in on embodiment, the first arm 160 and the secondarm 180 may be approximately 10 inches in length, whereby the portion ofthe first arm 160 corresponding to the microphone 162 and the portion ofthe second arm 180 corresponding to the shield assembly 190 aredimensioned to be positionable approximately two inches in front of themouth of the user when either are placed in the engaged position. Inanother embodiment, the second arm 180 is longer than the first arm 160or the microphone 162 is located at a more proximal position relative tothe support band such that the first arm 160 positions the microphone162 closer to the mouth of the user. In one example, the first arm 160may be configured to position the microphone 162 laterally adjacent,just off to a lateral side, or between the mouth of the user and alateral side of the shield assembly 190. In any of the above or otherembodiments, one or both of the arms 160, 180 may have a selectivelyextendable length. For example, the arms 160, 180 may be configured withtelescoping structures that may be pulled away from each other toincrease length or nested to decrease length.

In one embodiment, the first arm 160 may further comprise a top paneland a bottom panel disposed proximate the microphone 162. The top paneland bottom panel may be disposed along a top and bottom edge of thefirst arm, respectively. The top and bottom panels may be configured asrectangular plastic components extending in a vertical plane relative toand directly in front of the face of the user when the first arm 160 isin the engaged position. The top panel may be hinged at the top edge ofthe first arm and the bottom panel may be hinged at the bottom edge ofthe first arm 160, whereby the top and bottom panels may be rotatedinward and be positioned in a horizonal plane relative to the user. Adesign or logo may be disposed on the top and bottom panels whereby thedesign or logo would be viewable when the first arm 160 is engaged andthe top and bottom panels are positioned in their respective verticalpositions. Such designs and logos may be used for advertising orsponsorship purposes. Additionally, the top and bottom panel may extendto a height, whereby the mouth of the user is completely obstructed fromview, disallowing an outsider viewer from reading the lips of the user.

With reference to FIG. 4, the shield assembly 190 may comprise an innerface 192 and an outer face 194. The shield assembly 190 may furthercomprise a preventative lining 196 configured to restrict or blockairborne droplets, which may include aerosols, disposed between theinner face 192 and the outer face 194. The preventative lining 196 maybe configured to filter air as it passes through the preventive lining196. The inner face 192 and the outer face 194 may comprise a polymer orother suitable material, such as a plastic or thermoplastic. Thepreventative lining 196 may comprise cloth, paper, or a plasticmaterial. In one example, the preventative lining 196 comprises a meshmaterial. The mesh material may be a medical mesh, specifically adaptedfor filtering, capturing, or preventing transmission of airbornedisease. In one example, such a mesh may be coated in non-toxic materialknown to comprise disease resistant properties, such as copper. Thepreventative lining 196 may also comprise a respirator or otherprofessional-grade material. The preventative lining 196 may be adaptedto filter, capture, or hinder the transmission of air particles. Theinner face 192, the outer face 194 and the preventative lining 196 mayall comprise a recycled material. Additionally, the material may also berecyclable, allowing for the shield assembly 190 to beenvironmentally-friendly and producing minimal waste.

The inner face 192 and the outer face 194 may be comprised ofcorresponding holes 198 therethrough, allowing for increased ventilationand breathability within the shield assembly 190. In one embodiment, theholes 198 may be shaped as alternating circles and rectangles and areevenly spaced in rows extending a length of the shield assembly 190. Thecircular holes 198 may be approximately one-half inches in diameter andthe regular holes 198 may be approximately one-half inches in length andone-quarter inches in height. The holes 198 may be configured in eightrows and six columns evenly spaced along the shield assembly.Alternatively, the holes 198 may be evenly spaced in a scatteredconfiguration. Although described as uniform circles and rectangles, theholes 198 may comprise any shape and may vary in size and location.

In one embodiment, the inner face 192, outer face 194, and thepreventative lining 196 are transparent, whereby a user's lips may beviewed from outside the shield assembly 190. In another embodiment, theinner face 192, outer face 194, and the preventative lining are opaqueor partially opaque, whereby the lips of a user cannot be viewed fromoutside the shield assembly 190. In this embodiment, a logo or designmay be featured on or integrated within the outer face 194. The logo ordesign may be printed or painted onto the outer face 194, or the outerface 194 may be a multi-color thermoplastic comprising the logo ordesign as an integral part of the thermoplastic or a separate layertherein. The use of a logo or design on the outer face 194 of the shieldassembly 190 may be used for advertisement or sponsorship purposes ormay be used to affiliate the user with a team or company.

The shield assembly 190 may be configured in an oblong shape, wherebythe width of shield assembly 190 is slightly larger than its height,wherein the entire mouth and the nose of the user may reside within theshield assembly 190. The width of the shield assembly 190 may beapproximately six inches in width and approximately four inches inheight. In another embodiment, the shield assembly 190 may be configuredin a triangular shape adapted to cover the nose and the mouth of theuser. However, the shield assembly 190 may comprise any shape known inthe art adapted to cover both the mouth and nose of the user.

An outside edge of the inner face 196 of the shield assembly 190 maycomprise a foam cushion 197 to ensure continuous contact between theoutside edge of the inner face 196 and the face of the user, whileproviding additional comfort at the points of contact. The foam cushion197 may further comprise a cloth lining surrounding the entirety of thefoam cushion to reduce friction between the foam cushion 197 and theface of the user, thereby alleviating any potential irritation caused tothe user.

In one embodiment, the shield assembly 190 may be removably attachablefrom the second arm 180, thereby allowing for the replacement of a usedshield assembly 190. The shield assembly 190 may comprise a clipdisposed on the outer face 194 or on an outside edge adapted to claspthe second arm 180. The second arm 180 may further comprise acorresponding attachment point adapted to receive the clip of the shieldassembly 180. In another embodiment, the second arm 180 may comprise aslot adapted to receive the a protrusion disposed on the outer face 194or on an outside edge of shield assembly, whereby the protrusion of theshield assembly 190 may be slid into the slot of the second arm 180 tosecure the shield assembly 190 in place. In yet another embodiment, asshown in FIG. 4, a threaded screw 199 may be disposed on the outer face194 or on an outside edge of the shield assembly 190 and adapted toengage a threaded sleeve disposed on the second arm 180 . Alternatively,the threaded slot may be disposed upon the outer edge or face of theshield assembly 190 and the threaded screw may be disposed on the secondarm. However, any method of attachment known in the art may be employedto removably secure the shield assembly 190 to the second arm 180.

In another embodiment, the shield assembly 190 comprises a retainingmechanism attached to the second arm 180. The retaining mechanism may beadapted to receive and secure the shield assembly 190, a filtermaterial, such as cloth, cotton or other fiber mesh, or the like, orpre-manufactured face coverings, such as N95 respirators, cloth masks,or paper masks. The retaining mechanism may comprise clamps adapted tograsp the shield assembly 190, filter material, or pre-manufactured facecovering; prongs adapted to engage sleeves of the shield assembly 190,filter material, or pre-manufactured face covering; or a frame, wherebyedges of the shield assembly 190, filter material, or pre-manufacturedface covering may be slid into slots disposed on the frame. In oneembodiment, the retaining mechanism comprises three horizonal barsaligned in a vertical plane spaced approximately two inches apart. Theshield assembly 190 may be position between an upper bar and a middlebar, with another shield assembly also positioned between the middle barand a lower bar. The shield assembly 190 may correspond with the size ofthe gaps between the upper, middle, and lower bars. The shield assembly190 may thereby slide into grooves disposed on a bottom edge of theupper bar, a top and a bottom edge of the middle bar and a top edge ofthe lower bar.

In one embodiment, the communications headset 100 further comprises aloudspeaker whereby a user may speak into the microphone 162 and thesound may be amplified and projected through the loudspeaker. Theloudspeaker may be positioned on the shield assembly 190 or adjacent tothe microphone 162. In another embodiment, the communications headset100 includes a second microphone within the shield assembly 190 and aloudspeaker. The loudspeaker may be configured to receive a sound inputfrom the second microphone, whereby a user may speak into the secondmicrophone and the sound may be amplified and projected through theloudspeaker. The loudspeaker may be disposed along the second arm 180.Alternatively, the loudspeaker may be disposed on the outer face 194 ofthe shield assembly 190. In another embodiment, the loudspeaker may bedisposed in a separate housing in operational communication with thesecond microphone of the shield assembly 190. In one embodiment, thecommunications unit 126 may be adapted to wirelessly communicate withcellular telephones, including through the use of short-range wirelesscommunication technology standard such as BLUETOOTH®. In thisembodiment, the microphone 162 of the first arm 160 or the secondmicrophone of the second arm 180 and the speaker 120 may be used asexternal microphones and speakers for a cellular telephone, therebyallowing a user to make and receive calls from a cellular telephone inproximity to the headset system 100. One or more buttons may be disposedat the first end 144 or the second end 146 that may correspond topowering the headset system 100, the raising of volume in the speaker120, the changing of radio channels for the headset system 100, or othercommands known in the art.

In another embodiment, an example of which is shown in FIG. 5, thesupport band 140 may be comprised of a semi-rigid material and adaptedto be supported by the neck and collar of user. The support band 140 maybe configured in a semi-circular shape, whereby the elongated body 142of the support band 140 is wrapped around a back of the neck of the userwhen worn and wherein the first end 144 and the second end 146 areproximate the front of the neck of the user. In various configurations,the headset 100 may include one or more ear covers 122 configured toposition over ears of a user. Ear covers 122 may be positioned alongfirst and second ends 144, 146 at locations corresponding to ears of theuser. Ear covers 122 may include a speaker 120 in some embodiments. Inone embodiment, only the second arm 180 comprising the shield assembly190 is attached to the neck-supported support band 140, whereby thespeakers 120 and the first arm 160 and microphone 162 are not present.In another embodiment, all features presented in the head-supportedcommunications headset 100 are present. The one or more speakers 120 ofthe communications headset 100 may extend vertically from the supportband 140 to a location proximate the ears of the user. The first arm 160and the second arm 180 may be configured in a similar fashion to thehead-supported communications headset 100 of FIGS. 1-3, whereby thefirst arm 160 and the second arm 180 are disposed at the first end 144and the second end 146 of the support band 140, respectively. In thisembodiment, the first arm 160 and the second arm 180 may be pivotableabout an attachment point at the distal end 144 and the second end 146of the support band 140, respectively. The first arm 160 and the secondarm 180 may extend substantially vertical when in an engaged position toa position proximate the mouth and nose of the user. In an inactiveposition, the first arm 160 and the second arm 180 may extendsubstantially downward and rest upon the chest of the user.

The support band 140 may comprise a semi-rigid metal adapted to bemanipulated by the user to configure the support band 140 into a desiredshape. Thus, the shape of the support band 140 may be changed toaccommodate specific dimensions of the neck of the user currentlywearing the communication headset 100.

In one embodiment, the first arm 160 and second arm 180 are removablyattachable to the support band 140. In this embodiment, the first arm160 may be removed to allow for the operation of the communicationsheadset system 100 with solely the second arm 180 attached or the secondarm 180 may be removed to allow for the operation of the communicationsheadset system 100 with solely the first arm 160. In one embodiment, thefirst arm 160 and second arm 180 may also be removably attachable andconfigured to receive the opposite end 144, 146 of the support band 140,whereby the first arm 160 and the second arm 180 may switch sidesrelative to the head of the user. For example, if a startingconfiguration of the communications headset 100 comprises the first arm160 disposed to the left of the head and the second arm 180 to the rightof the head, and a user prefers the shield assembly 190 of the secondarm 180 to the left of the head, the user may detach the first arm 160and the second arm 180 from the support band 140 and reattach the secondarm 180 to the left of the head and the first arm 160 to the right ofthe head.

With reference to the example embodiment of FIG. 6, a wrist-mountedshield assembly 200 is disclosed. In one embodiment, wrist-mountedshield assembly 200 comprises a wrist band 210, a pivotable arm 220, anda mask assembly 230. The wrist band 210 is adapted to secure thewrist-mounted shield assembly 200 to the forearm of a user. Thepivotable arm 220 is secured to an outer face of the wrist band 210 at aconnection point and the mask assembly 230 is disposed on an oppositeend of the pivotable arm 220. In one embodiment, the connection point isa simple pin joint allowing for a single degree of rotation. In anotherembodiment, the connection point between the pivotable arm 220 and thewrist band 210 allows for multiple degrees of freedom, whereby the armmay be positioned in different configurations.

In a closed position, as depicted in FIG. 7A, the pivotable arm 220 maybe aligned approximately parallel with the arm of the user, with themask assembly 230 located at an upper area of the forearm. As shown inFIG. 7B, the pivotable arm 220 may be rotated about the connection pointto an erect position, whereby pivotable arm 220 is positionedperpendicular to the forearm of the user. In the erect position, theuser may lift the fore arm near the face of the user to engage the maskassembly 230 against the face of the user. The mask assembly 230 maycomprise a similar configuration and similar features to the shieldassembly 190 of the previous embodiments. In one embodiment, aconnection point between the pivotable arm 220 and the mask assembly 230may comprise a hinge, whereby the mask assembly 230 may pivot relativeto the pivotable arm 220 to allow for ease of use and more versatilitywhen the mask assembly 230 is engaged with the face of the user.

In the erect position, a user may lift its arm to a height below itschin and position the mask assembly 230 to press against the face of theuser to completely cover the nose and mouth of the user. The pivotablearm 220 may be approximately eight inches in length. In one embodiment,the pivotable arm 220 may be telescoping, whereby the length may beincreased or decreased depending on the preference of the user. In oneembodiment, the pivotable arm 220 may further comprise a second jointalong its length, whereby the pivotable arm 220 may fold upon itself Inthis embodiment, the mask assembly 230 may be positioned proximate thewrist of the user when in the closed position. The wrist band 210 may bepositioned proximate the wrist of the user and comprise a single strapthat is secured about the wrist. In another embodiment, the wrist band210 may comprise multiple straps connected by a connection rod runningthe length of the forearm of the user, thereby increasing the stabilityof the wrist-mounted shield assembly 200. The wrist-mounted shieldassembly 200 may further comprise a third microphone and radiocomponents in operational communication with the headset assembly 100,whereby sound input through the third microphone may be transmitted tothe communication unit 126 of the communications headset 100. The one ormore straps of the wrist band 210 may comprise hook and loop fasters,whereby the strap may be wrapped around the wrist or forearm of the userand a portion of the strap comprising hooks may be compressed against aportion of the strap comprising loops, thereby securing the one or morestraps in place. Alternatively, the one or more straps may be comprisedof an elastic fabric, such as conventional cotton wristbands, that arestretched, slid over wrist, and secured on the forearm via compressioncaused by an elastic force of the fabric.

Any references to “various embodiments,” “certain embodiments,” “someembodiments,” “one embodiment,” or “an embodiment” generally means thata particular element, feature and/or aspect described in the embodimentis included in at least one embodiment. The phrases “in variousembodiments,” “in certain embodiments,” “in some embodiments,” “in oneembodiment,” or “in an embodiment” may not refer to the same embodiment.Furthermore, the phrases “in one such embodiment” or “in certain suchembodiments,” while generally referring to and elaborating upon apreceding embodiment, is not intended to suggest that the elements,features, and aspects of the embodiment introduced by the phrase arelimited to the preceding embodiment; rather, the phrase is provided toassist the reader in understanding the various elements, features, andaspects disclosed herein and it is to be understood that those havingordinary skill in the art will recognize that such elements, features,and aspects presented in the introduced embodiment may be applied incombination with other various combinations and sub-combinations of theelements, features, and aspects presented in the disclosed embodiments.The grammatical articles “one”, “a”, “an”, and “the”, as used in thisspecification, are intended to include “at least one” or “one or more”,unless otherwise indicated. Thus, the articles are used in thisspecification to refer to one or more than one (i.e., to “at least one”)of the grammatical objects of the article. By way of example, “acomponent” means one or more components, and thus, possibly, more thanone component is contemplated and may be employed or used in animplementation of the described embodiments. Further, the use of asingular noun includes the plural, and the use of a plural noun includesthe singular, unless usage contex requires otherwise.

It is to be appreciated that persons having ordinary skill in the art,upon considering the descriptions herein, will recognize that variouscombinations or sub-combinations of the various embodiments and otherelements, features, and aspects may be desirable in particularimplementations or applications. However, because such other elements,features, and aspects may be readily ascertained by persons havingordinary skill in the art upon considering the description herein, andare not necessary for a complete understanding of the disclosedembodiments, a description of such elements, features, and aspects maynot be provided. As such, it is to be understood that the descriptionset forth herein is merely exemplary and illustrative of the disclosedembodiments and is not intended to limit the scope of the invention asdefined solely by the claims.

What is claimed:
 1. A communication headset system, the systemcomprising: a support band having a first end and a second end, wherein,in use, the support band is configured to extend over a head of a userwith the first end positioned along a first side of the head of the userand the second end positioned along a second side of the head of theuser; a first arm pivotably attached to the first end of the supportband; a second arm pivotably attached to the second end of the supportband, wherein the first and second arms are pivotable independent ofeach other; a microphone disposed on the first arm; and a shieldassembly attached or attachable to the second arm, the shield assemblycomprising an outer face and an inner face, wherein the shield assemblyis adapted to obstruct the transmission and receipt of air particles andfit over the nose and mouth of a user.
 2. The system of claim 1, furthercomprising at least one ear cover extending from the first end or secondend of the support band and positioned at a location corresponding toears of the user when in use.
 3. The system of claim 2, wherein the atleast one ear cover includes a speaker.
 4. The system of claim 1,wherein the first and second arms are vertically pivotable, laterallypivotable, or both.
 5. The system of claim 1, wherein an intermediatematerial is disposed between the outer face and the inner face of theshield assembly.
 6. The system of claim 5, wherein the intermediatematerial is a cloth material.
 7. The system of claim 5, wherein theintermediate material is a medical-grade material.
 8. The system ofclaim 1, wherein the shield assembly comprises a screw disposed on theouter face, whereby the screw is adapted to engage a threaded slotdisposed at the distal tip of the second arm.
 9. The system of claim 1,wherein the first arm and second arm are removably attachable from thesupport band.
 10. The system of claim 9, wherein the first and secondarms are vertically pivotable.
 11. The system of claim 1, wherein thefirst and second arms are laterally pivotable
 12. The system of claim 1,wherein shield assembly is transparent.
 13. The system of claim 1,wherein shield assembly is opaque.
 14. The system of claim 1, whereinthe outer face and the inner face of the shield assembly comprise aplurality of holes.
 15. The system of claim 14, wherein the plurality ofholes comprise circular holes and rectangular holes.
 16. The system ofclaim 15, wherein the circular holes are approximately one-half inch indiameter and the rectangular holes are approximately one-half inch inwidth and one-quarter inch in height.
 17. The system of claim 16,wherein the plurality of holes are arranged in separate rows alternatingbetween circular holes and rectangular holes.
 18. The system of claim 1,wherein the shield assembly further comprises a cushion materialdisposed on an outer edge of the inner face of the shield assembly. 19.The system of claim 1, wherein sides of the shield assembly areconfigured to form a seal between the sides of the shield assembly andface of the user to prevent air flow therebetween.
 20. The system ofclaim 1, wherein the first arm and the second arm are pivotable in anupward and downward direction and an inward and outward direction.